Zach and Arielle’s wedding day was a perfect blend of heartfelt moments, stunning architecture, and vibrant city energy — all set against the beautiful backdrop of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. As a documentary-style wedding photographer specializing in urban and authentic weddings, I was honored to capture their story with intention and creativity.
The day began with Arielle getting ready inside the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) alongside her sister-in-laws, surrounded by the museum’s elegant, artistic atmosphere. Meanwhile, Zach prepared nearby at the Homewood Suites Downtown with his brother and nephew, creating a warm, family-centered morning full of anticipation.
Their ceremony took place at the Miller Veranda, an elevated outdoor space on the GRAM that overlooks a bustling courtyard and the lively streets of historic downtown Grand Rapids. The Veranda’s airy and elevated design provided sweeping views to the left of the city skyline, offering an unforgettable urban setting for their vows. After exchanging vows in front of family and friends, Zach and Arielle shared a completely private moment with intimate, handwritten vows that made their commitment deeply personal and genuine.
Throughout the afternoon, we captured breathtaking images from the museum’s third floor, looking down on the ceremony space and the joyful crowd below. We also took advantage of Pocket Park, a charming green space adjacent to the museum bursting with fresh spring grass and a gentle breeze that added a natural, lively feel to their portraits.
Later, the celebration moved to the reception at the The Ballroom at Mckay, which was full of laughter, dancing, and heartfelt speeches. As the sun began to set, Zach and Arielle and I headed to the rooftop on the 16th floor of McKay Tower to capture magical golden hour portraits overlooking the city skyline.
One of the most memorable moments came when the couple celebrated with an exuberant champagne spray on the streets of Monroe Center and Pearl Street, right in front of iconic Grand Rapids landmarks The Pantlind at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. The joyous cheers of bystanders made the moment feel like a spontaneous block party, perfectly capturing the couple’s infectious happiness and the vibrant spirit of the city.
This amazing day was expertly captured on film by Old North Film Company (check out their Instagram) out of Chicago, while Mallory Joy Weddings and Events — Mallory is an LGBTQ wedding coordinator with a huge heart and an absolute joy to work with (see her on Instagram) — ensured every detail ran smoothly as the wedding day coordinator.
Zach and Arielle’s wedding day was a beautiful example of how urban spaces, intimate moments, and community energy come together to create unforgettable memories. If you’re looking for a Grand Rapids wedding photographer who captures the real, joyful, and unique stories of your day, I would love to tell your story through a documentary style that celebrates your love authentically.
📍 Featured Venues & Vendors:
- Assistant Photographer: Tim Kamppinen Photography
- Grand Rapids Art Museum — Miller Veranda & Pocket Park
- The Ballroom at McKay
- Monroe Center & Pearl Street (Pantlind Hotel & Amway Grand Plaza)
- Videography by Old North Film Company (Instagram)
- Wedding Day Coordination by Mallory Joy Weddings and Events (Instagram)
